Thigh protector

ABSTRACT

A thigh protector may include an upper portion comprising two straps for attaching the at least one thigh protector to a belt, the two straps defining a space therebetween for permitting attaching of a hip pad or a holster to the belt through the defined space and a lower portion comprising a plurality of thigh plates attached to a base pad, the plurality of thigh plates defining a hinge area therebetween and configured to permit the at least one thigh protector to be opened and placed about a thigh of a wearer. The thigh protector may further include at least one rib extending laterally from a face of one of the thigh plates for receiving and supporting a shield. The rib may include at least one protrusion extending vertically from a top of the at least one rib for assisting in keeping a shield in place on the at least one rib.

BACKGROUND Field of the Disclosure

The present disclosure relates to a system and apparatus comprisingvarious components for providing body protection for an individual and,more particularly, to a system, method and apparatus for providing bodyprotection such as, e.g., riot gear for an individual that is adjustablefor resizing to fit different sized individuals, among other features.

Related Art

Protective gear such as used for law enforcement officers or militarypersonnel is important for individual personal protection. At times,such personnel may be called upon to face adverse situations that couldbe unpredictable with potential of physical altercations.

Currently available protective gear tends to be cumbersome for anindividual to put on. Moreover, a particular set of protective gear isunable to conform to a wide range of body sizes, often requiringstocking of many different sizes of components.

A protective gear system or assembly that can be used across a widerrange of body sizes and provides added features to assist in theindividual's duty, especially in a time of an emergency or a riot wouldbe an advantageous development for use by law enforcement and militarypersonnel.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In one aspect, a body protection system is provided comprising: at leastone shoulder pad assembly, a torso assembly comprising a front torsoassembly and a rear torso assembly both the front torso assembly and arear torso assembly adjustably connectable to the at least one shoulderpad assembly, at least one thigh protector assembly adjustablyconnectable to the torso assembly and at least one leg protectorassembly adjustably connectable to the at least one thigh protectorassembly. The body protection system may further comprise at least onefoot protector adjustably connectable to the at least one leg protectorassembly. The body protection system may further comprise a front neckprotector connected to the front torso assembly and a rear neckprotector adjustably connectable to the rear torso assembly and the atleast one shoulder pad assembly.

The body protection system may further comprise at least one upper armprotector adjustably connectable to the at least one shoulder padassembly and at least one lower arm protection assembly adjustablyconnectable to the at least one upper arm protector. The at least oneshoulder pad assembly may comprise two shoulder pad assemblies and theat least one upper arm protector may comprise two upper arm protectorsadjustably connectable to the two shoulder pad assemblies, and the atleast one lower arm protection assembly may comprise two lower armprotection assemblies connectable to a respective one of the two upperarm protectors. The at least one lower arm protection assembly maycomprise an elbow protector adjustably connectable to the at least oneupper arm protector, an outer plate attached to an outer pad, the outerplate and outer pad configured to be adjustably connectable to the elbowprotector, the outer plate positionable for protecting an outer portionof a forearm and an inner plate attached to an inner pad the inner platepositionable for protecting an inner portion of a forearm, wherein theinner plate and outer plate are adjustably connectable to one anotherfor permitting for a wide range of forearm circumferences. The elbowprotector may be configured to form a concave cavity for receiving anelbow therewithin. The elbow protector may comprise an elbow linerconfigured with a concave cavity and comprising a solid foam materialand a flexible elbow hammock positionable adjacent the elbow liner andconfigured to be adjustably attachable to a wearer by a plurality ofadjustable straps, the plurality of adjustable straps also passingthrough the elbow liner.

In one aspect, the shoulder pad assembly may comprise a shoulder platepermanently attached to a shoulder pad, and the shoulder plate maycomprise an elevated portion proximate a neck end for additionalprotection to the neck area. The shoulder pad assembly may furthercomprise an adjustable attaching mechanism for attaching at least onerear neck protector.

In one aspect, the at least one thigh protector assembly may comprise anupper portion comprising two straps for attaching the at least one thighprotector to a belt, the two straps defining a space therebetween forpermitting attaching of a hip pad or holster to the belt through thedefined space, a lower portion comprising a plurality of thigh platesattached to a thigh pad, the plurality of thigh plates defining a hingearea therebetween and configured to permit the at least one thighprotector to be opened and placed about a thigh of a wearer. The hingemay permit opening and placing of the thigh protector about a wide rangeof thigh circumferences. The lower portion may comprise at least one ribextending laterally from a face of one of the thigh plates for receivingand supporting a shield thereon. The at least one rib may comprise atleast one post extending vertically from a top of the at least one ribfor assisting in keeping a shield in place on the at least one rib. Thelower portion may comprise at least one notch formed in a top edge ofone of the thigh plates for assisting in keeping a shield in place onthe at least one thigh protector assembly. The body protection systemmay further comprise an adjustable securing mechanism for closing thelower portion about a thigh of a wearer.

In one aspect, the at least one leg protector assembly may comprise aknee guard adjustably connectable to the at least one thigh protectorassembly, a shin guard plate adjustably connectable to the knee guard,the shin guard plate may comprise an upper leg pad permanently attachedto the shin guard plate, a lower leg pad removably attachable to theupper leg pad, the lower leg pad configured to be repositionable along alower leg of a wearer and an adjustable securing mechanism configured tosecure the shin guard plate and upper leg pad about a leg of a wearer.

In one aspect, the front torso assembly may comprise a chest padadjustably connectable to the at least one shoulder pad assembly, anadjustable plate pocket adjustably connected to the chest pad forreceiving a plate therewithin and a lower abdominal pad configured witha recess along a top of the lower abdominal pad for receiving a belttherewithin, the lower abdominal pad releaseably connectable to an innerside of the chest pad. The front torso assembly may further comprise oneor more adjustable arm pads releaseably connectable to the chest pad,the one or more adjustable arm pads for protecting the rib area of awearer, the plate insertable in the adjustable plate pocket, a flapsecured to an inner side of the chest pad for adjustably securing theplate within the adjustable plate pocket and at least one adjustableconnecting strap configured to connect the chest pad to a back pad. Theadjustable plate pocket may include a plurality of anchor points forattachment of MOLLE-compatible accessories to the adjustable platepocket, the plurality of anchor points arranged at about 90 degreeangles to one another, thereby permitting easier access to any attachedMOLLE-compatible accessories. The back torso assembly may comprise aback pad adjustably connectable to the at least one shoulder padassembly, an adjustable plate pocket adjustably connected to the backpad for receiving a plate therewithin, a lower back pad configured witha recess along a top of the lower back pad for receiving a belttherewithin, the lower back pad releaseably connectable to an inner sideof the back pad and at least one adjustable connecting strap to connectthe back pad to the front torso assembly. The back torso assembly mayfurther comprise a plurality of handles permanently attached to the reartorso protector assembly at a plurality of locations for easier liftingof a downed individual. The front torso assembly may further comprise aplurality of rescue straps permanently attached to the front torsoprotector assembly at a plurality of locations for easier lifting of adowned individual.

In one aspect, a method of providing body protection may includeproviding two shoulder pad assemblies, each shoulder pad assemblycomprising a shoulder plate, the shoulder plate configured with a raisedportion at one end for protecting a neck area, providing a torsoassembly comprising a front torso assembly and a rear torso assembly,both the front torso assembly and the rear torso assembly adjustablyconnectable to the two shoulder pad assemblies, the front torso assemblyand the rear torso assembly each comprising an adjustable plate pocketfor receiving a plate therewithin, the rear torso assembly and the fronttorso assembly comprising a plurality of handles permanently attached ata plurality of locations to the rear torso protector assembly and thefront torso assembly for easier lifting of a downed individual.

The method of providing body protection may further include providing aplurality of thigh protector assemblies, each adjustably connectable tothe torso assembly, providing a plurality of leg protector assembliesadjustably connectable to the plurality of thigh protector assemblies,providing a pluritaty of foot protectors adjustably connectable to theplurality of leg protector assemblies, providing a front neck protectoradjustably connectable to the front torso assembly and a rear neckprotector adjustably connectable to the rear torso assembly, providing aplurality of upper arm protectors adjustably connectable to the twoshoulder pad assemblies and providing a plurality of lower armprotection assemblies adjustably connectable to the plurality of upperarm protectors. The plate may comprise a ballistic plate.

In one aspect, at least one lower arm protection assembly is providedthat includes an elbow protector adjustably connectable to the at leastone upper arm protector, an outer plate attached to an outer pad, theouter plate and outer pad configured to be adjustably connectable to theelbow protector, the outer plate positionable for protecting an outerportion of a forearm and an inner plate attached to an inner pad theinner plate positionable for protecting an inner portion of a forearm,the inner plate and the outer plate are adjustably connectable to oneanother for permitting for a wide range of forearm circumferences. Theelbow protector may be configured to form a concave cavity for receivingan elbow therewithin, the elbow protector may comprise an elbow linerconfigured with a concave cavity and comprising a solid foam materialand a flexible elbow hammock positionable adjacent the elbow liner andconfigured to be adjustably attachable to a wearer by a plurality ofadjustable straps, the plurality of adjustable straps also passingthrough the elbow liner.

In one aspect, a thigh protector assembly is provided and may comprisean upper portion comprising two straps for attaching the at least onethigh protector to a belt, the two strap defining a space therebetweenfor permitting attaching of a hip pad or holster to a belt through thedefined space, a lower portion comprising a plurality of thigh platesattached to a thigh pad, the plurality of thigh plates defining a hingearea therebetween configured to permit the at least one thigh protectorto be opened and placed about a thigh of a wearer. The hinge may permitopening and placing of the thigh protector about a wide range of thighcircumferences. The lower portion may comprise at least one ribextending laterally from a face of one of the thigh plates for receivingand supporting a shield thereon. The at least one rib may comprise atleast one post extending vertically from a top of the at least one ribfor assisting in keeping a shield in place on the at least one rib. Thelower portion may comprise at least one notch formed in a top edge ofone of the thigh plates for assisting in keeping a shield in place onthe at least one thigh protector assembly.

In one aspect, a leg protector assembly is provided comprising a kneeguard adjustably connectable to the at least one thigh protectorassembly, a shin guard plate adjustably connectable to the knee guard,the shin guard plate comprising an upper leg pad permanently attached tothe shin guard plate, a lower leg pad removably attachable to the upperleg pad, the lower leg pad configured to be repositionable along a lowerleg of a wearer and an adjustable securing mechanism configured tosecure the shin guard plate and upper leg pad about a leg of a wearer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of the disclosure, are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosureand, together with the detailed description, serve to explain theprinciples of the disclosure. No attempt is made to show structuraldetails of the disclosure in more detail than may be necessary for afundamental understanding of the disclosure and the various ways inwhich it may be practiced. In the drawings:

FIGS. 1A is a front view and FIG. 1B is a back view of a protective gearsystem, configured according to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a thigh protector assembly, configuredaccording to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the thigh protector assembly of FIG.1A, but showing a replaceable component, and attaching mechanism detail,configured according to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 2C is a close-up view of a lower portion of an example of a thighprotector assembly, configured according to principles of thedisclosure.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a leg protector assembly, configuredaccording to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of the leg protector assembly ofFIG. 3A, configured according to principles of the disclosure.

FIGS. 3C is a perspective view of an example knee guard for use in theleg protector assembly of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3D is an illustration of a liner for use with the knee guard ofFIG. 3C.

FIG. 3E is an illustration of a hammock configured on an inner surfaceof an outer plate of a knee guard, configured according to principles ofthe disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a first perspective view of an arm protector assembly,configured according to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a second perspective view of an arm protector assembly,configured according to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 4C is an example rear view of an elbow protector, configuredaccording to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 4D is a front perspective view of an elbow protector, configuredaccording to principles of the disclosure;

FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of a torso protector assembly,configured according to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a front perspective view of a front pad of the torsoprotector assembly of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C illustrates in part an exploded front perspective view of thetorso protector assembly of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5D is an exploded front perspective view of the front pad of FIG.5B, configured according to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 5E is an illustration of an adjustable plate pocket of FIG. 5D.

FIG. 5F is a perspective view of a rear torso protector assembly,configured according to principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 6A is an illustration of a back panel of a torso protectorassembly, with a lift handle assembly, configured according toprinciples of the disclosure

FIG. 6B is an illustration of the back panel of a torso protectorassembly, with a lift handle assembly of FIG. 6A, but with the lifthandle assembly highlighted.

The present disclosure is further described in the detailed descriptionthat follows.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure and the various features and advantageous details thereofare explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting examplesthat are described and/or illustrated in the accompanying drawings anddetailed in the following description and attachment. It should be notedthat the features illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawnto scale, and features of one example may be employed with otherexamples as the skilled artisan would recognize, even if not explicitlystated herein. Descriptions of well-known components and processingtechniques may be omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure theexamples of the disclosure. The examples used herein are intended merelyto facilitate an understanding of ways in which the invention may bepracticed and to further enable those of skill in the art to practicethe examples of the disclosure. Accordingly, the examples herein shouldnot be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

The terms “including”, “comprising” and variations thereof, as used inthis disclosure, mean “including, but not limited to”, unless expresslyspecified otherwise.

The terms “a”, “an”, and “the”, as used in this disclosure, means “oneor more”, unless expressly specified otherwise. The term “about” meanswithin plus or minus 10%, unless context indicates otherwise.

Devices that are in communication with each other need not be incontinuous communication with each other, unless expressly specifiedotherwise. In addition, devices that are in communication with eachother may communicate directly or indirectly through one or moreintermediaries.

Although process steps, method steps, algorithms, or the like, may bedescribed in a sequential order, such processes, methods and algorithmsmay be configured to work in alternate orders. In other words, anysequence or order of steps that may be described does not necessarilyindicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. Thesteps of the processes, methods or algorithms described herein may beperformed in any order practical. Further, some steps may be performedsimultaneously.

When a single device or article is described herein, it will be readilyapparent that more than one device or article may be used in place of asingle device or article. Similarly, where more than one device orarticle is described herein, it will be readily apparent that a singledevice or article may be used in place of the more than one device orarticle. The functionality or the features of a device may bealternatively embodied by one or more other devices which are notexplicitly described as having such functionality or features.

Protection gear that is used in situations such as, e.g. riot control,is often ordered, maintained and stored by an organization, e.g., city,station, precinct, school, or other entity. As such ordering gear thatfits all of its officers or personnel who may be with the organizationfor a relatively short time, e.g., a year or two, can be complicated andcan cost added expense to sufficiently protect a wide range of officersor individuals who are of different body sizes, and may be continuouslyrotating in and out of the organization. This may also apply to sportsteam that purchases and maintains protective gear for its members. Inone aspect, the principles of this disclosure provides for adjustableassemblies employing adjustable strapping options between the variousassemblies, and across different body areas, to create a singleadjustable protection system that fits most participants or members ofthe organization.

FIGS. 1A is a front view and FIG. 1B is a back view of a protective gearsystem 1, configured according to principles of the disclosure. Theprotective gear system 1 provides a one-size-fits-most protection systemfor most individuals. The protective gear system may be employed by lawenforcement officers, military, athletes such as hockey players, or anindividual 125 where protection against impact force may be desired. Theprotective gear system 1 may provide a cost savings to agencies,schools, or companies because individuals of differing sizes can use thesame protective gear system 1 thereby possibly reducing the number ofsystems needed to be purchased.

As described in more detail below, protective gear system 1 may compriseone or more thigh protection assembly 200, a leg protection assembly 300including one or more foot protectors 350, an upper arm protector 110,one or more lower arm protection assemblies 400 and a torso protectionassembly 500, 600. The upper arm protector 110 may be adjustablyconnected to torso assembly 500, 600 and also to the one or more lowerarm assemblies 400 by connecting mechanisms 115 and 130. Connectingmechanisms 115 and 130 may employ a quick release buckle type technique.Either or both of the connecting mechanisms 115 and 130 may beadjustable to permit independent positioning of an upper arm protector110 along an arm and also independent positioning of the lower armassembly 400 along an arm to permit a one-size-fits-most capability. Theleg protection assembly 300 may be adjustably connected to the thighprotection assembly 200 using an attaching mechanism 105 that permitsposition adjustment along a leg. In this manner, the leg protectionassembly 300 may be repositionable along a leg of an individual 125 withrespect to the thigh protection assembly 200 to support aone-size-fits-most system. Attaching mechanism 105 may employ a quickrelease buckle type technique.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a thigh protector assembly 200,configured according to principles of the disclosure. FIG. 2B is aperspective view of the thigh protector assembly of FIG. 1A, but showinga replaceable component, and attaching mechanism detail, configuredaccording to principles of the disclosure. FIG. 2C is a close-up view ofa lower portion of an example of a thigh protector assembly, configuredaccording to principles of the disclosure.

There may be a thigh protector assembly 200 positioned about each thighof a wearer, only one thigh protector assembly is described in relationto FIGS. 2A-2C, but a second thigh protector assembly 200 may beemployed in a similar manner on the second leg of an individual, asshown in FIGS. 1A, 1B. Thigh protector assembly 200 includes a lowerportion 205 and an upper portion 204 comprising two straps 220 a, 220 bthat may be configured to fold over a belt 225 and fasten to itself,e.g. via a securing mechanism such as posts 221 and receiving hole 222,permitting adjustable positions offering a range of height/lengthoptions for a wearer. Other securing techniques may be employed such as,e.g., snap connectors, hooks, buttons or the like. Buckle 226 may securethe belt 225 about a wearer. The two straps 220 a, 220 b form a U-shapedspace 209 therebetween, but could be other shapes such as, e.g., aV-shaped or rectangular shaped. The upper portion including the twostraps 220 a, 220 b may connect with the lower portion 205 proximate anarrowed indented portion 235. The narrowed indented portion 235 mayinclude a radius along an outer edge. The narrowed indented portion 235may reduce surface area on the thigh for comfort and may permit moreflexibility overall.

The lower portion 205 may comprise a base pad 206 to which a pluralityof thigh plates 210 a, 210 b may be attached thereto such as, e.g., bybeing sewn 257 to the base pad 206. Thigh plates 210 a, 210 b maycomprise a solid, durable material such as, e.g. a metal material or acomposite material, of sufficient strength to absorb and/or deflectsubstantial energy that may be imparted against the thigh plates 210 a,210 b while protecting a thigh of a wearer. The plurality of thighplates 210 a, 210 b may provide a secure fit about a wear's thigh whilealso being somewhat flexible proximate a vertical midpoint sectionbetween the plurality of thigh plates 210 a, 210 b establishing aflex-hinge 250 at the midpoint section to permit the two sections of thelower portion to open somewhat when being placed on a wearer's thighthereby permitting use for a wider range of thigh circumferences and formore adjustability while maintaining snug contact with the thigh. Eachof the two sections configured with one of the plurality of thigh plates210 a, 210 b thereon. For example, the thigh circumference range may befrom about 18 to about 37 inches, but may be greater or less, e.g.,20-34 inches. The two sections 207, 208 of the lower portion 250 uponwhich the plates 210 a and 210 b are respectively attached may besecured to one another by an adjustably securing mechanism, 240, whichmay include a loop and hook type connecting technique, to secure thelower portion 205 around the thigh and/or for closing the lower portion250 about a thigh of a wearer. A securing portion 241, which may be theloop portion or, conversely, the hook portion of a loop and hookconnector, may be fixed to and extend across the entire width of thethigh plate 210 b, for facilitating length adjustment for differentsized thighs.

Thigh plate 210 b may be oriented on the forefront of a wearer's thighwhen thigh protector assembly 200 is being worn, and may be configuredwith one or more ribs 230 a, 230 b that may extend horizontally orlaterally outward from a front face of plate 210 b. The one or more ribs230 a, 230 b may be configured to provide a ledge for the wearer to resta shield 202. For example, a law officer wearing the thigh protectorassembly 200 may be called to carry a shield 202 for use in the line ofduty. The shield may be placed in any one of the ribs 230 a, 230 bthereby assisting in holding the shield 202 to reduce fatigue, or toprovide an improved manner of bracing the shield 202 itself against aleg of the officer. The one or more ribs 230 a, 230 b may be configuredwith a post 251 a, 251 b or tabs extending vertically from the one ormore ribs 230 a, 230 b to assist in keeping a shield 202 lodged behindthe post 251 a, 251 b on a rib 230 a, 230 b.

Thigh plate 210 b may be configured with a notch 232 formed in the topedge 232 of thigh plate 210 b. This notch 232 also permits a shield 202to be placed into the notch 232 to assist in holding the shield 202in-place in front or to a side of the wearer. The notch 232 aids torelieve weight on the wearer's arms, and also aids to buttress theshield against strikes. The notch 232 and the ribs 230 a, 230 b may alsoassist keeping the shield 202 positioned higher in front of anindividual or officer in a ready position during a confrontation thatpermits a quicker reaction time to respond to thrown items at theindividual or officer while providing less stress on the arms of theindividual or officer.

The notch 232 may provide a higher positioning of a shield as comparedto the ribs 230 a, 230 b.

A hip pad 215 may be removably attachable to the belt 225 by ananchoring mechanism 216. For example, the hip pad 215 may be removed anda gun holster 245 may be attached to the belt 225. The hip pad 215 orthe gun holster 245 may be anchored to the belt 225 through the area 209created between the two straps 220 a, 220 b, e.g. the U-shaped areadefined therebetween.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a leg protector assembly 300,configured according to principles of the disclosure. FIG. 3B is apartial exploded perspective view of the shin protector of FIG. 3A.FIGS. 3C is a perspective view of a knee guard 305 for use in the legprotector assembly of FIG. 3A. FIG. 3D is an illustration of a liner 325for use with the knee guard 305. FIG. 3E is an illustration of a hammock320 configured on an inner surface 324 of the outer plate 306 of kneeguard 305, configured according to principles of the disclosure. Kneeguard 305, liner 325, hammock 320 and straps 310 a, 310 b may comprise aknee guard assembly. The shin guard plate 330 includes an upper pad 340attached to the shin guard plate 330. The upper pad 340 may bepermanently attached to the shin guard plate 330 by an attachingmechanism 337 such as e.g., rivets, bolts, screw or similar technique. Arelocatable lower pad 345 may be attached to the upper pad 340 by adetachable and reconnectable technique 347 such as, e.g., hook and looparranged on an outer upper section of the lower pad 345 to provide foradjusting of the lower pad 345 in relation to the shin guard plate 330,the upper pad 340 and the foot protector 350 thereby promoting aone-size-fits-most leg protection. A lower strap 334 may also permit forsecuring the lower pad 345 to and about a lower leg of a wearer. Lowerstrap 334 may utilize a hook and loop technique. Upper pad 340 and lowerpad 345 may comprise a padded material that is comfortable for a wearer.The shin guard plate 330 may comprise a hard plastic or compositematerial sufficient to withstand and/or absorb significant physicalblows. The shin guard plate 330 may be wider at the top near the kneearea and tapering to a narrower width at the bottom near the ankle areaof a wearer. A plurality of recesses 318 may be configured into thefront face of the shin guard, which may arranged at 45 degrees tovertical. The plurality of recesses 318 may be arranged in pairsadjacent to one another in a vertical column and a horizontal row.

The shin guard plate 330, upper pad 340 and lower pad 345 may be securedto a leg of wearer by an adjustable securing mechanism, e.g., at leastone strap 335 and/or strap 331. The shin guard plate 330 may beadjustably attached to the knee protector 305 by a connecting strap 315via cut-outs 316, 317, and 322 a, 322 b of insert 325. Connecting strap315 may be adjusted to permit vertical positioning of the shin guardplate 330 along the shin region of a leg promoting and providing aone-size-fits-most leg protection.

The foot protector 350 may comprise a hard shell 351 with a foot pad 360attached to the shell 351 of foot protector 350. The hard shell 351 maycomprise a hard plastic or composition material suitable forwithstanding and/or absorbing considerable energy from physical blows. Ashoe connecting mechanism 355 such as an adjustable strap may secure thefoot protector 350 to a shoe or boot of a wearer. A foot protectorconnecting mechanism 365 may adjustably connect the foot protector 350to the lower pad 345. The foot protector connecting mechanism 365 may bepermanently or releaseably connected at one end to the foot pad 360 andreleaseably connectable to the lower pad 345 at the other end, such asby hook and loop type of connection thereby promoting and providing aone-size-fits-most leg protection.

The shin guard plate 330, foot protector hard shell 351 and outer shell306 of knee protector 306 may comprise a solid sturdy composition suchas a hard plastic, composite, metal or similar material of sufficientdurability to withstand and disperse energy imparted by significantphysical blows thereto. The solid sturdy composition preferablycomprises a lightweight material to minimize overall weight on a wearer.

The knee guard 305 may comprise the outer shell 306 which may comprise aplate and a liner 325 formed in a shape that matches the contour of theinner surface 324 of the outer shell 306 of knee protector 305. Theouter shell 306 may comprise a hard material such as a hard plastic orcomposite material. The liner 325 may comprise a one-piece durable foampad that may include a plurality of raised foam protrusions 341 toprovide increased shock absorbency for protecting the knee of a wearer.A hammock 320 may be configured to receive the liner 325 thereunder. Theliner 325 may be inserted under the hammock 320 and secured to outershell 306 guard 305 by an adjustable connecting strap, such as e.g.,strap 315 through slots 332 a, 332 b and one or more slots 316. Kneeretaining straps 310 a, 310 b may be fastening behind a wearer's knee tohold the knee protector 305 secure to the wearer's knee. Knee retainingstraps 310 a, 310 b may be attached such as, e.g., by stitching or othersuitable securing mechanism 323 to the outer shell 306, such as to innersurface 324. The hammock 320 may be permanently connected to the innersurface 324 and may comprise a mesh type material that may assist inproviding a shock absorbance in addition to the liner 325. The mesh typematerial may be a type of suspension panel and may be stretched toprovide a flexing characteristic. The flexing characteristic may beanalogous to a trampoline type effect.

FIG. 4A is a first perspective view of an arm protector assembly 400,configured according to principles of the disclosure. FIG. 4B is asecond perspective view of an arm protector assembly, configuredaccording to principles of the disclosure. FIG. 4C is an example of arear view of an elbow protector 405, configured according to principlesof the disclosure. FIG. 4D is a front perspective view of an elbowprotector 405, configured according to principles of the disclosure.Elbow protector 405 may comprise a durable foam material, but maycomprise a hard material such as, e.g., plastic. The elbow protector mayinclude a portion 420 that extends partially around an elbow area. Elbowprotector 405 may be configured to form a concave cavity 412 foraccepting an elbow therewithin. An elbow hammock 413 may be arranged andpositioned above the concave cavity 412. The elbow hammock 413 mayprovide a trampoline type effect to absorb energy. The elbow protector405 and elbow hammock 413 may connect about an elbow via, e.g.,adjustable straps 410 a, 410 b, loops 411 a, 411 b, and slots 417. Theplurality of adjustable straps 410 a, 410 b also passing through theelbow liner 420.

The elbow protector 405 may adjustably connect with the upper armprotector 110 (FIG. 1A) via adjustable connecting mechanism 130 (FIG.1B) through slot 407 a, thereby promoting and providing aone-size-fits-most arm protection. The upper arm protector 110 maycomprise a hard plastic, composite material or similar material. Theupper arm protector 110 may comprise a raised area near the top of theupper arm protector 110 to provide added deflection capability, and mayserve to strengthen the upper arm protector 110. The raised area may beof a raised triangular shape, as shown in FIG. 1A.

The lower arm protection assembly 400 may include flexible connectivitywith elbow protector 405 using an elastic type connecting mechanism 441and slot 407 b. In some applications, hook and loop type of connectingmechanism may be employed. The lower arm protection assembly 400 maycomprise an outer plate 430 connected to an outer pad 447, the outerplate and outer pad 447 positionable for protecting an outer portion ofa forearm. The outer plate 430 may include diagonal recesses 442, whichmay comprise opposing recesses at about 90 degree angles to one another.The lower arm protection assembly 400 may further comprise an innerplate 435 connected to an inner pad 445, positionable for protecting aninner portion of a forearm. A repositionable pad 443 may further supplyadded padding on a wearer's arm for increased protection. The least onerepositionable pad 443 may include hook and loop techniques forrepositionably reconnecting to the inner pad 445. The plates 430 and 435may be connected to their respective pads 447, 445 by a permanentconnecting technique such as, e.g., by being sewn, stitched, or otherpermanent connecting technique. The inner plate 435 and inner pad 445may be adjustable with respect to one another for permitting a range ofarm sizes. Straps 440 a, 440 b which may include a hook and loop typeconnector may hold the lower arm protection assembly 400 to a wearer'sforearm. Straps 440 a, 440 b permit adjustability for a wide range offorearm circumferences.

FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of a torso protector assembly 500,configured according to principles of the disclosure. FIG. 5B is a frontperspective view of a front pad of the torso protector assembly of FIG.5A. FIG. 5C illustrates in part an exploded front perspective view ofthe torso protector assembly of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5D is an exploded frontperspective view of the front pad of FIG. 5B. FIG. 5E is an illustrationof an adjustable plate pocket of FIG. 5D.

The torso protector assembly 500 may include the front torso protectorassembly 501 and rear protector assembly 600. Front torso protectorassembly 501 includes an adjustable plate pocket 505 configured to holdan interchangeable plate 510 to protect a wearer against blunt traumaand/or gunshot wounds. The plate 510 may be configured with bevelcorners 502 along the top of the plate 510. The plate 510 may beavailable in different contours and thicknesses, and in differentmaterials depending on the level of protection desired. The plate 510may comprise a ballistic plate. Since different plate 510 thicknessesmight be used, the adjustable plate pocket 505 is free floating and isnot permanently anchored to the chest or back components. The bottom ofthe plate pocket 505 may be connected to the back side of the chest pad520 via a releasable connector 507 a, 507 b (FIG. 5D) such as e.g., ahook and loop connection to allow adjustments for different thicknessesof plates 510. At the top of the plate pocket 505, a flap 535 may securethe plate 510 within the pocket 505, such as by a hook and loopconnection. The flap 535 may be secured to the inner side of the chestpad 520. Each side, left and right, of the plate pocket 505 may besecured to the chest pad 520 by one or more loop-channels 555 that allowan flexible or elastic chord 550 to pass through and pull the plate 510against or into the chest pad 520. The chord 550 may be anchored at oneend of the plate pocket, top or bottom, to the back side of the chestpad 520. The chord 550 may be adjustable by a locking mechanism thatallows for adjustment and to secure the plate pocket 505 and plateinsert 510 accordingly. The chest pad 502 may be connected to the backpad 602 via at least one adjustable connecting strap 540 a, 540 b, whichmay comprise, e.g., a hook and loop connection. The front torso assemblymay also include abdominal pad 525 configured with a grooved or recessedarea 530 that is of sufficient depth to accept and hold a belt 225 whilealso permitting vertical adjustments of the abdominal pad 525 inrelation to the chest pad 520 to accommodate shorter or longer torsos.The abdominal pad 525 may releasable connectable 524 to the back of thechest pad 520 such as, e.g., via a hook and loop mechanism to permitrepositioning for different sized individuals.

The front torso protector assembly 501 may include one or moreadjustable arm pads 560 a, 560 b which are configured to provide sideprotection to the ribs and arms. The one or more adjustable arm pads 560a, 560 b may adjustably connect proximate at a curvature 575 in theouter edge of the chest pad 520. The curvature 575 provides some spacefor the one or more adjustable arm pads 560 a, 560 b to be positionedunder an arm proximate the ribs of the wearer. The one or moreadjustable arm pads 560 a, 560 b may attach to the front torso protectorassembly 501 directly with an adjustable securing mechanism, such as ahook and loop mechanism 527. In some applications, the one or moreadjustable arm pads 560 a, 560 b may attach to the rear torso protectorassembly 600 with an adjustable securing mechanism, such as a hook andloop mechanism 527.

The front torso protector assembly 501 may further include one or moreshoulder pad assemblies 565 a, 565 b. The one or more shoulder padassemblies 565 a, 565 b may comprise a shoulder plate 567 a, 567 b thatmay comprise a hard plastic or similar hard material sufficient toabsorb or deflect energy applied against the shoulder plate 567 a, 567b. The shoulder plate 567 a, 567 b may be connected to the shoulder pad564 a, 564 b such as, e.g., by being sewn or similar connectiontechnique. The shoulder pad 564 a, 564 b may comprise a soft comfortablematerial for padding the plates 567 a, 567 b against the wearer, and maycomprise, e.g., a cotton or synthetic material, similar material, orcombinations thereof. The shoulder plate 567 a, 567 b may generallyconform to a shape of a top of a shoulder and be configured with a neckprotector which may comprise elevated protrusions 566 a, 566 b risingfrom the shoulder plate 567 a, 567 b at a first end of the shoulder padassembly 565 a, 565 b closest to the neck of a wearer. Elevatedprotrusions 566 a, 566 b may comprise the same material as the shoulderplate 567 a, 567 b. Shoulder pad 564 a, 564 b may also be configuredwith elevated portions 563 that match the elevated protrusions 566 a,566 b rising from the shoulder plate 567 a, 567 b. The second endopposite the first end may be configured with a connecting mechanismsuch as, e.g., a buckle 567 a, 567 b to permits adjustable connectivityto the upper arm protector 110 such as via a strap, or other adjustablemechanism, the mechanism may comprise a hook and loop mechanism. Theshoulder pad assembly 565 a, 565 b may adjustably connect to the chestpad 520 via adjustable connecting mechanism 570 which permits a range ofsizing options for wider or narrower chest widths, thereby promoting aone-size-fits-most capability. The shoulder pad assembly 565 a, 565 bmay adjustably connect to the back pad 602 in a similar manner viaadjustable connecting mechanism 630. Adjustable connecting mechanism570, 630 may comprise a hook and loop mechanism. The front torsoprotector assembly 501 may further include a front neck protector 580connected to the chest pad 520, proximate a top end 545 of the chest pad520.

The front torso protector assembly 501 may include one or more rescuestraps 503 configured on one or both sides of chest pad 520. The one ormore rescue straps 503 may be of sufficient strength to lift and/or pulla downed individual.

FIG. 5D illustrates adjustable plate pocket 505 and the 45 degree anchorpoints 506 that allows for the attachment of various MOLLE-compatiblepouches or accessories such as e.g. extra ammo, mace, a stun gun, andsimilar accessories. As shown in FIG. 5E, in one aspect, the 45 degreearrangement permits easier access by an individual as compared withtraditional horizontal type MOLLE-compatible systems. The anchor points506 may be arranged as two different rows oriented at 90 degree anglesto one another. The anchor points 506 may be arranged as a plurality ofdifferent rows oriented at 90 degree angles to one another. Thedifferent rows may be interspersed among one another.

FIG. 5F is a perspective view of a rear torso protector assembly 600,configured according to principles of the disclosure. The rear torsoprotector assembly 600 may be constructed in a similar fashion as thefront torso protector assembly 501. The rear torso protector assembly600 may comprise a back pad 602, a back plate pocket 605 and a backplate 615, which may comprise a plate in the same manner as the plate502. The back plate 615 many comprise a ballistic plate.

Since different plate 615 thicknesses might be used, the adjustable backplate pocket 605 may be free floating and may not permanently anchoredto the back components. The bottom of the plate pocket 605 may beconnected to the back side of the back pad 602 via a releasableconnector such as, e.g., flaps 507 a, 507 b, which may be e.g., a hookand loop connection to allow adjustments for different thicknesses ofplates 615. At the top of the back plate pocket 605, a flap 635 maysecure the plate 615 within the pocket 605, such as, e.g., by a hook andloop connection. The flap 635 may be secured to the inner side of theback pad 602. Each side, left and right, of the plate pocket 605 may besecured to the back pad 602 by one or more loop-channels 555 that allowa flexible or elastic chord 625 to pass through and pull the back plate615 against or into the back pad 602. The chord 625 may be anchored atone end of the back plate pocket 605, top or bottom, to the back side ofthe back pad 602. The chord 625 may be adjustable by a locking mechanismthat allows for adjustment and to secure the back plate pocket 605 andback plate 615 accordingly. The back pad 602 may be connected to thechest pad 520 via at least one adjustable connecting strap 540 a, 540 b,which may comprise, e.g., a hook and loop connection. The front torsoassembly may also include abdominal pad 525 configured with a grooved orrecessed area 530 that is of sufficient depth to accept a belt 225 whilealso permitting vertical adjustments of the abdominal pad 525 inrelation to the chest pad 520 to accommodate shorter or longer torsos.The abdominal pad 525 may releaseably connect 524 to the back of thechest pad 520 such as via a hook and loop mechanism. The shoulder padassembly 565 a, 565 b may adjustably connect to the back pad 602 viaadjustable connecting mechanism 630 which permits a range of sizingoptions for wider or narrower chest widths, thereby promoting aone-size-fits-most capability.

A lower back pad 610, similar to the abdominal pad 525, serves toprovide protection to the lower back of a wearer. The lower back pad 610may be configured with a grooved or recessed area 530 in a like manneras the abdominal pad 525. The grooved or recessed area 530 may beconfigured to receive a belt 225 thereon to assist in maintaining thebelt about a wearer. The lower back pad 610 may releaseably connect tothe back side of the back pad 602 such as, e.g., via a hook and loopmechanism.

The rear torso protector assembly 600 may further comprise a back neckprotector 620 that may comprise a pad that surrounds, at least in part,a neck of the wearer to provide protection from the back of the neckarea. The back neck protector 620 may be adjustably connectable to theback pad 602 to permit flexible positioning of the back neck protector620 in relation to the back pad 602. The back neck protector 620 may beremoveably and adjustably connectable 616 to the back pad 602 via anadjustable mechanism 616 such as, e.g., a buckle and/or a hook and looptype connecting mechanism. Also, the back neck protector 620 may beremoveably and adjustably connectable to the shoulder pad assemblies 565a, 565 b by connector 622 which may be a releasable connector such as,e.g., hook and loop. The back neck protector 620 may be repositionablefor different sized individuals, and provides for a 4-point securedanchor attaching system.

Back plate pocket 605 may comprise 45 degree anchor points 506 asdescribed previously in relation to FIG. 5E and 5F that allows for theattachment of various MOLLE-compatible pouches or accessories such ase.g. extra ammo, mace, a stun gun, or similar accessories.

FIG. 6A is an illustration of a back panel of a rear torso protectorassembly 600, with a lift handle assembly 690, configured according toprinciples of the disclosure. FIG. 6B is an illustration of the backpanel of a torso protector assembly, with a lift handle assembly of FIG.6A, but with the lift handle assembly 690 highlighted. The lift handleassembly 690 may comprise a plurality of handles 670 a, 670 b, 670 cthat are attached to the rear torso protector assembly 600 at severalpoints 671 such as, e.g., by riveting or other permanent attachingtechnique. The lift handle assembly 690 provides for easier lifting of adowned individual. The plurality of handles 670 a, 670 b, 670 c orrecuse straps may be configured proximate each shoulder and the neckarea providing multiple options to lift a downed individual, e.g., anindividual who may have fallen in a position that perhaps only one ofthe plurality of handles 670 a, 670 b, 670 c is easily accessible to arescuer in a time sensitive situation. For example, if an officerwearing the torso assemblies 500, 600 may be downed, such as, e.g.,being injured or disabled. A rescuer may be able to lift the downedofficer and carry and/or drag the officer to safety by any one of thehandles 670 a, 670 b, 670 c that are secured to the rear torso protectorassembly 600. The plurality of handles 670 a, 670 b, 670 c may comprisea single piece of durable material such as, e.g., webbing material.

In one aspect, the protective gear as configured according to principlesof this disclosure may provide an overall body protection system thatincludes a unified suspension system of the various assemblies hereinthat adjustably suspends directly or indirectly from the topmostassembly, the one or more shoulder pad assemblies 565 a, 565 b. Theupper arm protectors 110 may adjustably suspend from the one or moreshoulder pad assemblies 565 a, 565 b. The plurality of lower armprotection assemblies 400 may adjustably suspend from respective upperarm protectors 110. Torso protection assemblies 500, 600 may adjustablysuspend from the one or more shoulder pad assemblies 565 a, 565 b. Theone or more thigh protection assemblies 200 may adjustably suspend fromthe torso protection assemblies 500, 600 such as via the belt 225 andthe grooved or recessed area 530 of the abdominal pad 525 and/or thelower back pad 610. The one or more leg protection assembly 300 mayadjustably suspend from the one or more thigh protection assemblies 200.The one or more foot protectors 350 may adjustably suspend from arespective one of the leg protection assemblies 300. In this manner theprotective gear may be unified as a complete system from shoulders tofeet with one component adjustably connected to another adjacentcomponent. In some applications, not all assemblies may be employed, nornecessarily required to be connected in the same relationship.

While the invention has been described in terms of examples, thoseskilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practicedwith modifications in the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Theseexamples are merely illustrative and are not meant to be an exhaustivelist of all possible designs, embodiments, applications or modificationsof the invention.

1-24. (canceled)
 25. A thigh protector, comprising: an upper portioncomprising two straps for attaching the at least one thigh protector toa belt, the two straps defining a space therebetween for permittingattaching of a hip pad or a holster to the belt through the definedspace; and a lower portion comprising a plurality of thigh platesattached to a base pad, the plurality of thigh plates defining a hingearea therebetween and configured to permit the at least one thighprotector to be opened and placed about a thigh of a wearer.
 26. Thethigh protector of claim 25, wherein the two straps are configured tofold over the belt and fasten to the upper portion.
 27. The thighprotector of claim 26, further comprising a securing mechanismconfigured on each of the two straps, the securing mechanisms configuredto be adjustable permitting different positions in a range of height onsof the thigh protector for a wearer.
 28. The thigh protector of claim25, wherein the defined space forms one of: a U-shaped space, a V-shapedspace and a rectangular space.
 29. The thigh protector of claim 25,wherein the hinge permits opening and placing of the thigh protectorabout a wide range of thigh circumferences.
 30. The thigh protector ofclaim 25, further comprising at least one rib extending laterally from aface of one of the thigh plates for receiving and supporting a shieldthereon.
 31. The thigh protector of claim 30, wherein at least one ribfurther includes at least one protrusion extending vertically from a topof the at least one rib for assisting in keeping a shield in place onthe at least one rib.
 32. The thigh protector of claim 31, wherein thelower portion includes at least one notch formed in a top edge of one ofthe thigh plates for assisting in keeping a shield in place on the thighprotector.
 33. The thigh protector of claim 31, wherein at least one ribcomprises two ribs.
 34. The thigh protector of claim 30, wherein atleast one rib comprises two ribs.
 35. The thigh protector of claim 25,wherein the lower portion includes at least one notch formed in a topedge of one of the thigh plates for assisting in keeping a shield inplace on the at least one thigh protector.
 36. The thigh protector ofclaim 25, further comprising an adjustable securing mechanism forclosing the plurality of thigh plates and base pad about a thigh of awearer, the adjustable securing mechanism facilitating length adjustmentfor different size thighs.
 37. The thigh protector of claim 25, whereinthe plurality of thigh plates comprise a solid material and arepermanently attached to the base pad.
 38. The thigh protector of claim25, further comprising the hip pad.
 39. The thigh protector of claim 25,further comprising at least a portion of a quick release attachingmechanism that is configured to attach the thigh protector to a lowerleg protector, the at least a portion of a quick release mechanism beinglocated at a lower end of the thigh protector.
 40. A thighprotector,comprising: an upper portion comprising an attaching mechanism forattaching the at least one thigh protector to a belt of a wearer; and alower portion comprising a plurality of thigh plates attached to a basepad, the plurality of thigh plates defining a hinge area therebetweenand configured to permit the at least one thigh protector to be openedand placed about a thigh of a wearer, at least one of the thigh platesconfigured with at least one of: (a) at least one rib extendinglaterally from a face of the at least one of the thigh plates forreceiving and supporting a shield thereon, and (b) at least one notchformed in a top edge of one of the at least one thigh plate forassisting in keeping a shield in place on the thigh protector
 41. Thethigh protector of claim 40, wherein the at least one rib comprises aplurality of ribs.
 42. The thigh protector of claim 41, wherein the atleast one of the thigh plates is configured with at least one notchformed in a top edge of one of the at least one thigh plate forassisting in keeping a shield in place on the thigh protector.
 43. Thethigh protector of claim 41, wherein at least one of the plurality ofribs includes at least one protrusion extending vertically from a top ofthe at least one of the plurality of ribs for assisting in keeping ashield in place on the at least one rib.
 44. The thigh protector ofclaim 40, wherein the at least one rib includes at least one protrusionextending vertically from a top of the at least one rib for assisting inkeeping a shield in place on the at least one rib.